Secondary menu

Search form

Plus Blog

This short video features one of our favourite mathematicians, Corinna Ulcigrai from the University of Bristol, talking about mathematical billiards, its connection to chaos theory, and why mathematicians study it. You can also read our article Chaos on the billiard table, based on an interview with Ulcigrai.

It's not supernatural powers that help Joana fly, but the equation on the blackboard. This partial differential equation can be used to fill in specific parts of an image based on what's around it. The process is called inpainting. For this image the equation was solved numerically to remove the stool Joana was sitting on. Image inpainting has wide ranging practical applications: from the restoration of satellite images, enhancement of medical images, the renovation of digital photographs and artwork, to special effects in images and videos.

"I am delighted for my work to have been recognised with this very special honour," says Charlie. "In recent years there have been unprecedented changes in mathematics education, particularly in curriculum development and the professional development of teachers, and it has been a privilege to have been in a position to influence them."

MEI's Chairman Gerald Goodall says:
"MEI plays a leading role in expanding opportunities for access to high quality mathematics education and we are very fortunate to benefit from Charlie’s leadership. MEI's trustees and staff are delighted to see Charlie's hard work and dedication recognised in this way."

It must almost be holidays for everyone and so it's nearly time to celebrate! For many people that involves having a nice cold glass of something and we have found the very best way to open a bottle – a beautiful Klein Bottle Opener from Bathsheba! We love Klein bottles, just one of many beautiful mathematical surfaces. You can read all about them while you enjoy your glass of bubbly!